How to Remove Frozen Brake Bleeder Screws

Brake bleeder screws typically mount on brake calipers. The screws can freeze, or become stuck, when calipers are exposed to moisture and other corrosive elements, such as road salt. The corrosive elements might cause rust to form between the bleeder screw threads and the caliper. To break the seal formed from the rust, use an oil penetrating product such as Liquid Wrench, WD 40 or Marvel Mystery Oil. These products are low-viscosity oils that penetrate rust and lube bleeder screw threads for easy removal.

Instructions

1

Loosen and remove the brake line, which is located at the rear of the caliper, with a ratchet or a wrench. Drain any fluid inside the caliper through the hole where the bolt secured the brake line.

2

Spray the frozen bleeder screw with the oil penetrator to loosen any rust that might be binding the screw. Apply the product to a rag or paper towel liberally, then wrap the saturated material around the bleeder screw. Let the material remain on the screw for as long as the product's manufacturer recommends.

3

Secure the caliper to a solid work area, such as a work bench, with a c-clamp to free both your hands and prevent the caliper from slipping.

4

Attach an appropriate-sized socket to a long-handled ratchet. Connect the socket to the bleeder screw. Turn the ratchet counter-clockwise to loosen the screw.

5

Tap the back end of the ratchet handle with a hammer or mallet while turning the ratchet in a counter-clockwise direction. This action will help loosen the bind between the screw threads and the caliper if needed.